I used to build boxes and things with this stuff we did a little sanding on a 6x48 table belt sander 80 grit and finished with a 100 grit random orbit. This was for artists to paint on, any finer sanding and the paint would run to easily. Everyone I put on that job sanded right thru the birch a few times before they got it down.

I used to build boxes and things with this stuff we did a little sanding on a 6x48 table belt sander 80 grit and finished with a 100 grit random orbit. This was for artists to paint on, any finer sanding and the paint would run to easily. Everyone I put on that job sanded right thru the birch a few times before they got it down.

Here are a couple of pictures of my completed bookcase before sanding and staining. It measures 80"x34". My next question is whether I should use a brush or a rag for stain. I would live opinions please.

Well done, we always shipped raw wood but the customers always used minwax stains because it has less oil in it and you can finish with water based finishes like diamond coat. As far as brush or rag, back to testing for effect.

Very nice. I will 9 times out of 10 go with a rag or several rags. I tend to work the stain into the wood and wipe away as I go. Very seldom do I paint it on and wait some time and then take off the excess.

Try out a few methods on some scrap wood, also good idea to make sure the stain will react with your wood like what the sample in the store looked like. I have many times taken a sample of the wood with me to the paint store to try it out before buying.

Very nice design and workmanship. Did you follow a plan or is that your design? Taking orders?

Bud - it is a combination of a few things I've seen and my own modifications. I tend to go with what I'm feeling as I go. It is great fun and relaxing. More testing on samples. I bought three sample colors and two different finishes. I am creating samples of all colors and finishes and now I will also create samples with rag and brush. I don't want to mess this up now.